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1 hour
Mobile ticket
Beautiful Hexham’s Ugly Past - Guided Walking Tour
“Fascinating to learn just how stinky/violent this picturesque market town was.” “Would totally recommend this if you’ve got an hour.”
“Informative, fun, evocative tour” “A fabulous, quirky tour”
Explore over 1,000 years of Hexham’s dark history as your guide, an accomplished public speaker and official Hexham Town Crier, brings the past to life.
Just arrived in Hexham? Get to know your way around while being entertained.
Tour includes:
The market square massacre in which 51 were killed.
The brutal, life-changing punishments given for trivial offences.
The macabre contents that gave the drinking water its ‘distinct’ flavour.
How well does your guide know Hexham?
They were born and raised in Hexham.
They spent eight months researching Hexham’s history.
They’re an official Town Crier for Hexham.
This tour is: Accessible Dog-Friendly Circular Route
A healthy outdoor activity
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dog Friendly
Disability Aware
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Experienced Storytelling Guide
All Refreshments
Hexham
We begin and walk through the ancient Market Town of Hexham.
Hexham Abbey
We stop outside the stunning Abbey to hear of Hexham's most 'bloodiest' days and then walk through the garden to hear of repeated attacks from invaders. (opportunity for Photographs)
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Faye B,
Sep 30, 2025
- Viator
We had an excellent tour guide Helen. We were a party of 4 families with 8 adults and 11 children between us, ranging from 9 to 17. Everybody really enjoyed the tour and Helen was full of interesting, gruesome facts. She interacted really well with the children and made it very fun for them.
Kirsteen C,
Jun 28, 2025
- Viator
Helen is an excellent tour guide and brought the gruesome history of Hexham alive. We explored parts of the town we wouldn't have found otherwise and through her storeytelling heard the voices from Hexham's past
Operated by Adventours UK Newcastle